Let it snow

This is the first winter in a long time that Michigan has enjoyed what most natives crave - winter sports. Courtesy of Mother Nature, snowmobilers, snowboarders, skiers, skaters, fisher people and others have been having the time of their life.
Even when the snow does disappear, it returns almost immediately. Just when I think I can rake up a few of those left-over leaves, the white hides them securely once again. And I am glad.
I'm really getting to enjoy it, actually. The crisp, beautiful white. The brisk cold. The ice-sheathed trees. The animal tracks. It is winter and we are getting the most out of it.
I can also remember the seasons where there was no snow, no winter sports, sad-eyed recreation dealers, muddy, dirty ground. Even the air seemed stale and bitter.
This is much better, even when I have to drive in it. The snow is cleansing, life-altering. It's the norm for a northern state, and a bonus foot or two this season, global warming or not.
I pity the folks who see green or brown all year round. The change of seasons is more than a reminder of time passing. It is an invigorating, energizing, engaging message of fortitude.
It is Michigan in winter, again.